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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 01:34 PM
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Gman in NC's Avatar
Gman in NC
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Default Chrome switchgear buttons

Going to replace the starter,turnsignal,kill switch etc buttons on my 09 Heritage with chrome ones. Had several friends tell me it's a hectic job to do. Any tips? Thanks.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 01:55 PM
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Are you just doing the switch caps? I bought the entire custom chrome switch and wire harness since I changed my handlebars and needed longer cables too.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 02:06 PM
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Originally Posted by Gman in NC
Going to replace the starter,turnsignal,kill switch etc buttons on my 09 Heritage with chrome ones. Had several friends tell me it's a hectic job to do. Any tips? Thanks.
I did chrome caps on my ride earlier this year. Didn't find it that bad of a task. Be focused, pay attention to details/little parts and to how the switch blocks came apart and all will be fine.

Just be careful when installing the chrome covers. Go easy and don't force them. They are, after all, just plastic.

Good luck with your project!!
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 02:07 PM
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Just did my wifes sportster this morning. Took about 45 minutes, but I have done 3 sets so far on other bikes. Note: Do not damage your brake lever switch, use the cardboard trick. (search for it on forum). A very skinny flat screw driver helps alot. Turn signals and Start buttons have springs, not too complicated. Two different size stars needed, one for housing and one internal to remove switches. Take your time, do one side at a time, one switch cap at a time. Good Luck.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 02:10 PM
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Thanks for the help guys. I've heard those concerns for sure. I think I'll be fine. This forum is a great place to be.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 02:14 PM
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Originally Posted by streetglide44
Just did my wifes sportster this morning. Took about 45 minutes, but I have done 3 sets so far on other bikes. Note: Do not damage your brake lever switch, use the cardboard trick. (search for it on forum). A very skinny flat screw driver helps alot. Turn signals and Start buttons have springs, not too complicated. Two different size stars needed, one for housing and one internal to remove switches. Take your time, do one side at a time, one switch cap at a time. Good Luck.
By the way, that "cardboard trick" comes straight out of the service manual. If you have a service manual, I recommend pulling it out and seeing if there is anything relevant as well.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 05:13 PM
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I have done the switches on other bikes, but not mine and it was not to bad. Just keep an eye on the springs if they pop out and get away from you. I suggest in a clutter free garage or on a large concrete pad outside so you can find the spring if it gets away from you.
 
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 05:15 PM
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I have seen that issue mentioned in my service manual. I'm ready to tackle this little project but only after a weekend trip to the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. Rockyriver: Have seen your bike on display at the Hog Happenin in Lincolnton this year. Nice ride for sure. Just found out we're losing our HD dealership here in Gastonia in October. They decided to shut it down. Thanks again.
 

Last edited by Gman in NC; Aug 18, 2010 at 05:17 PM.
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Old Aug 18, 2010 | 07:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Gman in NC
I have seen that issue mentioned in my service manual. I'm ready to tackle this little project but only after a weekend trip to the New River Gorge area of West Virginia. Rockyriver: Have seen your bike on display at the Hog Happenin in Lincolnton this year. Nice ride for sure. Just found out we're losing our HD dealership here in Gastonia in October. They decided to shut it down. Thanks again.
Thanks, for the compliment.
Yes, I heard the same on Carolina closing its doors. When Click got killed, it surprised me his wife ran it as long as she did without selling it or closing the doors. My hats off to her.
 
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